If a car accident leaves you injured, you may seek compensation for those injuries. However, there are mistakes you can make both at the scene of the accident and afterward that could damage your case against the negligent party.
Of course, you should always get the other driver’s license, insurance and license plate information. But here are a few mistakes to avoid making in order to have the strongest case possible.
- Fail to gather evidence
Any evidence that you gather at the scene of the accident greatly helps you build your case. Yes, an investigator may assess the scene afterward, but most of the evidence will no longer be available. If you are able, take pictures of the accident and get the personal information of any witnesses.
- Fail to call police
You should always call law enforcement after an accident. If an officer comes to the scene, find out how to obtain a copy of the report. If no officer comes to the scene, file a report yourself the following day.
- Fail to get medical treatment
Going to your physician or the hospital soon after an accident is essential. If you wait to consult a physician, the defense could claim that your injuries happened sometime between the time of the accident and when you visited your doctor.
- Post about the accident on social media
You should stay off social media while your case is pending. Even though you may want to let your friends and family know about the accident and how you are doing, anything you put online can harm your case. For example, if you mention the accident and say that you are all right, you may be in trouble. The insurance company can use those posts to claim that you are faking or exaggerating your injuries. So it is best to steer clear of posts until you resolve your case.
